How teachers got boys interested in English literature

Analysis: GCSE results showed the gender gap closing – and teachers think a few key changes have made all the difference, writes Eleanor Busby

A variety of new texts have been introduced to the curriculum (PA)

Girls are still doing better academically than boys at GCSE level – but this year, males closed in on females in terms of the pass rate, with the gap between the sexes the smallest it has been for four years.

On GCSE results day, figures revealed that boys are catching up in subjects where girls have traditionally led the way – including Biology and English literature.

This summer, more boys improved their outcomes at grade 4 or above, which is the equivalent of a C under the old system, in the new, tougher English Literature GCSE.